The Department of Agriculture (DA) is set to partner with the provincial government of Zamboanga del Sur to implement farm-to-market road (FMR) projects across the province, following a request from Gov. Divina Grace Yu.
“Local government units coming forward to help the DA fast-track farm-to-market road projects is a welcome development. We need all the support we can get to build infrastructure that opens access, lowers production costs, raises farmers’ incomes and delivers real development in the countryside,” said Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr.
The renewed emphasis on FMRs comes as responsibility for these projects returns to the DA after several years under the Department of Public Works and Highways, amid concerns linked to the ongoing flood-control controversy.
Congress has meanwhile doubled the FMR budget to P33 billion for 2026, enough to fund at least 2,200 kilometers of farm roads nationwide. Zamboanga del Sur identified 26 priority road projects across 21 municipalities, including Pagadian City, with a combined budget of P370 million for joint implementation.
“We firmly believe this collaboration will reinforce transparency and accountability, while ensuring the efficient and timely completion of FMR projects that improve accessibility and advance the welfare of our farmers,” Yu said, adding that the partnership will strengthen oversight while accelerating project delivery.
The province also pledged to create a dedicated unit to monitor and supervise the projects, provide regular reports on disbursements and progress, and strictly comply with government accounting, auditing and procurement rules.
The DA said partnerships with capable local governments are expected to play a critical role in fast-tracking rural infrastructure, translating higher public investment into tangible gains for farmers and rural communities. The agency is also setting up an online portal and enlisting citizen groups to monitor road projects, ensuring they are completed on time and within specifications.
